Pharmacology

Overview

The American Heritage Dictionary defines Pharmacology as “the science of drugs, including their composition, uses, and effects.” Falling within the realm of pharmaceutical sciences, Pharmacology focuses on exactly how drugs work and what kinds of reactions certain drugs cause in our bodies. As a Pharmacology major you’ll gain a solid foundation in biology and chemistry. Most students then choose to pursue further education in graduate or medical school.

Your studies in Pharmacology should expose you to the molecular mechanics of a medication and the design and testing of new drugs. You might choose to focus on the clinical side of pharmacology, in which you’ll study drug dosage regimens and ways to improve treatment and minimize risk. You’ll learn about how different drugs interact, and which drugs treat certain diseases most effectively. With all of this knowledge, you could one day change the way medicine is practiced by inventing the drug that cures AIDS or the common cold.